Air India Planning to Deploy Additional Cabin Crew on its Narrow-Body Aircraft

Air India will deploy additional cabin crew members on its narrow-body aircraft, which are operating on international routes and domestic metro-to-metro routes, to provide better service to passengers, its Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Campbell Wilson said according to a report by Business Standard.

"On the cabin crew front, our recruitment and training teams have done a great job in recent months of onboarding new colleagues. Thanks to their efforts, and notwithstanding our ongoing growth, we'll be restoring a full service-based complement of cabin crew on our narrowbody international and domestic metro-to-metro flights from September 1," he told employees in a message. "As even more new crew enter the system we will be restoring the full service-based complement on all other flights too, subject to load factors," Wilson added.

Air India has 127 planes in its fleet, out of which 74 are narrowbody aircraft, according to aviation analytics firm Cirium. A narrowbody plane like A320neo has a smaller fuel tank as compared to widebody aircraft. They are used domestically or on short international routes. Many of its flights to the Middle East and Southeast Asia also fall within the range of these jetliners and are carried out by the A320 family jets. According to data by Cirium, Air India will operate more than 1,400 return flights in September alone to destinations such as Dubai, Muscat, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, and Doha, among many others.

Air India placed a massive aircraft order earlier this year. The order includes 34 A350-1000, six A350-900, 20 Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 10 Boeing 777X widebody aircraft, as well as 140 Airbus A320neo, 70 Airbus A321neo and 190 Boeing 737MAX narrowbody aircraft.

Staff Integration with Vistara

Vistara has reportedly begun discussions with Air India – both are part of the Tata Group – to integrate its staff with the latter. This comes as both carriers wait for regulatory approvals for their merger. Vistara has a dedicated workforce of 5,500 currently and is aiming to expand it to 6,000 by the end of 2023.

Vistara CEO Vinod Kannan said that any rationalisation of staff is unlikely, but not everyone might get the same role or position in Air India, according to a report in The Economic Times. Air India is also in the process of bringing various segments of its employees under one structure, the report added.  The first round of integrations, the report stated, would take place between old and new Air India employees, which will be followed by that with Vistara and AirAsia India. 

Kannan said that the airline aims to get all the approvals for the Vistara merger with Air India by April 2024. It might take a few months after that for the actual merger process.  However, some areas of integration, such as networks and brands, would be possible only after the regulatory approvals are granted, Kannan said. 

This development comes even as the Competition Commission of India (CCI) which is required to approve the merger, asked Air India why its merger with Vistara should not be investigated. Air India and Vistara told the competition watchdog that there will be no adverse impact on competition due to their merger. They also said that the CCI scrutiny would not have any material business impact on their operations.

(With Inputs from Business Standard)

Tata Group-owned full-service carrier Vistara featured among the top international airlines, while Air India jumped many places to feature among the top 10 in the annual index of luggage storage company Bounce. Vistara maintained its position at number 5 with an airline index score of 6.43 out of 10. The index, which was published earlier this month, compared 60 airlines on various factors from the number of on-time arrivals to the quality of in-flight catering.

Japan Airlines ranked the highest with an overall score of 8.28, followed by Singapore Airlines with a score of 7.63. Qatar Airways and Korean Air were ranked third and fourth with a score of 7.50 and 7.19 respectively.

Under Tata Group's ownership, Air India jumped to rank 8 from 24 last year in the index. The airline's index score improved to 5.40 in 2023 from 3.85 last year. Low-cost carrier IndiGo's emphasis on international travel benefited the airline as it climbed to rank 18 from 25 last year. The index score improved to 4.38 from 3.83 last year. In the UK-based consultancy Skytrax's rankings for the world's top airlines, Vistara featured at 16 in 2023, while Air India didn't make the list. IndiGo stood at 43, improving just two places from 45 last year.

For international ratings, Bounce took into account 62 of the world’s largest airlines (based on departures). On-time arrival and cancellation percentages were calculated based on data from OAG and parameters such as meals, inflight entertainment and staff services were recorded from Skytrax, notes the agency. Other key factors included checked-in and carry-on baggage allowance (for both domestic and international flights), seat comfort and number of flights.

"The reliability of airlines can vary hugely from company to company, as can the quality of onboard comfort, service, and entertainment, all of which contribute to a fantastic laying experience," Bounce wrote on its website. 

Air India - Vistara Merger

Since the conglomerate assumed control in October 2021, the Tata Group has been considering a merger between Air India and its sister airline Vistara. The government, which seeks to maintain an even playing field, is now paying more attention to the sheer size of the final product. Campbell Wilson, Air India’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), and Sidharth Sharma, Tata Group’s General Counsel, met with Ravenet Kaur, the Chief of the Competition Commission of India (CCI), to discuss the ongoing merger process and its potential impact the merger will have on India’s airline industry. As it currently stands, the Tata Group owns Air India, AirAsia India, and Air India Express outright. The Tata Group also has a 51% stake in Vistara, with Singapore Airlines holding the remaining 49%.

Concerns about a potential duopoly by the post-merger Air India and IndiGo have piqued the CCI's interest in the case. Furthermore, the merger will result in the Tata Group’s market share exceeding 50% in at least seven domestic markets. The Air India-Vistara combination will also have a hold on various domestic and international routes.

In June, the CCI notified the airlines about why the process should be fast-tracked and why it should not investigate the merger further. Air India’s CEO met with the Chief of the CCI to address the watchdog's concerns about the merger. The airline is yet to make an official response to the CCI. Once a reply has been sent, the CCI will review it and decide on the merger. If the CCI is unsure of the proposal, it can order a broader, more detailed review. However, Vistara’s Chief Executive Officer, Vinod Kannan, stated that regulatory approvals for the merger will be sorted by April 2024.

In a recent turn of events, IndiGo Airlines found itself grappling with yet another mid-air scare, further fueling concerns over the safety of its flights. This incident unfolded during a routine flight from Kolkata to Bengaluru when one of the aircraft's engines, specifically engine number two, unexpectedly shut down. Unfortunately, this wasn't an isolated occurrence, as earlier on the same day, another IndiGo flight, this time from Madurai to Mumbai, encountered a similar engine-related issue.

A Mid-Air Nightmare

The affected aircraft, an Airbus A321neo bearing the registration VT-IUF, encountered a distressing mid-air situation when engine number two experienced a sudden stall, accompanied by a warning signal indicating the detection of an oil chip. In adherence to standard safety protocols, the engine was promptly shut down, and the aircraft, along with its passengers, safely returned to Kolkata.

Parallel Incident in Madurai

Coincidentally, the day witnessed a parallel incident involving another IndiGo flight. This flight, operated by an Airbus A321 registered as VT-IUJ, also faced an engine stall during its journey from Madurai to Mumbai. However, in this case, the pilot skillfully managed the situation, ensuring the safety of everyone on board. The flight landed smoothly at its scheduled destination.

IndiGo's Response

In response to these alarming incidents, IndiGo released a statement acknowledging the technical issues faced by both flights. They expressed their commitment to passenger safety and reassured the public that all necessary actions were being taken.

The statement read, "VT-IUJ operating flight 6E-2012 from Madurai to Mumbai had a technical issue prior to Landing in Mumbai. The pilot prioritized landing in Mumbai. The aircraft is held in Mumbai and will be back in operation after necessary maintenance. We regret the inconvenience caused to the passengers."

Grounded for Maintenance

As a precautionary measure, both aircraft involved in these incidents have been grounded for thorough maintenance. This decision aligns with IndiGo's uncompromising dedication to safety standards and ensuring that its fleet operates in prime condition.

The Persistent Engine Woes

These recent events add to the growing list of troubles that IndiGo has faced with its Pratt & Whitney (PW) engines. This ongoing saga has led to the grounding of approximately 40 aircraft within the IndiGo fleet, primarily due to engine problems. The airline has also grappled with a shortage of replacement engines, further exacerbating the situation.

Conclusion

The incidents involving engine troubles on IndiGo flights from Kolkata to Bengaluru and Madurai to Mumbai serve as stark reminders of the critical importance of aviation safety. IndiGo's commitment to addressing these issues, grounding aircraft for maintenance, and ensuring passenger safety is commendable. However, the recurring nature of engine-related problems underscores the need for a comprehensive and long-term solution to prevent such incidents in the future.

With Inputs from Times of India

In a recent turn of events, the aviation safety regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has taken the decision to temporarily suspend Air India's Boeing simulator training facility. This decision follows a series of alleged violations that have come under scrutiny in recent days.

Understanding the Situation

Alleged Violations Unveiled

The controversy surrounding Air India's Boeing simulator training facility arose when allegations of non-compliance with safety regulations came to light. The DGCA, responsible for ensuring the safety and security of civil aviation in India, initiated a closer examination of the matter.

DGCA's Verification Process

As part of its due diligence, the DGCA began the process of verifying various documents and reports related to the functioning of Air India's training facility. This meticulous investigation aims to ascertain the veracity of the alleged violations and the extent to which they may have compromised safety standards.

The Regulatory Response

Temporary Suspension

In response to the alleged violations, the DGCA took the unprecedented step of temporarily suspending Air India's Boeing simulator training facility. This suspension serves as a precautionary measure to prevent any potential safety hazards that may arise from the alleged lapses.

"Due to certain lapses, the DGCA has temporarily suspended Air India's Boeing simulator training facility." "The regulator is verifying some documents related to the matter," according to the source.

Pending Decision

While the suspension is in effect, the DGCA has refrained from making any hasty decisions. Instead, it has opted for a thorough review of the documentation and reports in question. The regulatory body intends to make an informed decision on the reinstatement of the training facility once this meticulous process is complete.

Uncovering the Triggers

Safety Audit Reports Under Scrutiny

The suspension of Air India's training facility stems from concerns raised during a safety audit conducted by the DGCA. A two-member inspection team reportedly discovered discrepancies in the airline's internal safety audit reports. These findings prompted the DGCA to launch a full-fledged investigation into the matter.

The Need for Clarity

The DGCA's decision to suspend the training facility underscores the critical importance of adherence to safety regulations in the aviation industry. Safety audits and regulatory actions serve as crucial mechanisms to maintain the highest standards of safety for both passengers and crew.

The Way Forward

As the DGCA's investigation unfolds, the aviation industry watches with bated breath. The suspension of Air India's Boeing simulator training facility serves as a stark reminder of the uncompromising commitment to safety that is imperative in the aviation sector.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the temporary suspension of Air India's Boeing simulator training facility by the DGCA due to alleged violations highlights the unwavering dedication to safety in the aviation industry. This proactive measure underscores the importance of adherence to safety regulations and the critical role of regulatory bodies in ensuring the highest standards of safety.

In a recent report that has sent shockwaves through the European aviation community, the European Cockpit Association (ECA), a prominent representative body for pilots, shed light on the concerning issue of fatigue-related risks within the European aviation system. This groundbreaking report serves as a clarion call, warning of significant safety management deficiencies that demand immediate attention and corrective action.

The ECA Report: A Wake-Up Call

Understanding the Scope

The report, commissioned by the ECA, was meticulously executed by the aviation safety management consultancy firm, Baines Simmons. Published on August 28, 2023, it represents a comprehensive investigation into the state of pilot fatigue across Europe. The scale of the survey is noteworthy, with almost 6,900 European pilots from 31 different countries participating. This extensive reach ensures that the findings are not isolated incidents but a reflection of a broader, systemic concern.

Survey Period and Participant Engagement

The survey was conducted between July 1 and July 22, 2023, during which Baines Simmons posed a series of questions to the participating pilots. These questions delved into the heart of the matter, addressing issues related to fatigue and its associated safety factors. The sheer number of respondents surpassed the initial expectations of the ECA, underscoring the urgency of the matter.

Key Findings: A Disturbing Reality

Prevalence of Fatigue

The ECA report unequivocally highlights that fatigue is not an isolated problem but rather a pervasive issue affecting pilots across Europe. The survey results reveal alarming statistics, with a substantial portion of respondents admitting to experiencing fatigue-related symptoms during their duties.

"The report shows that fatigue was building up in the cockpits already ahead of the summer peak season," according to the ECA, with three out of four pilots experiencing at least "one microsleep" while flying an aircraft in the past four weeks. Meanwhile, one-quarter of active-duty personnel experienced five or more microsleeps. "Furthermore, 72.9% of pilots reported having insufficient rest to allow them to recover from fatigue between duties," the ECA added.

Despite the fact that many surveyed pilots reported insufficient rest periods, nearly one in every five utilized "Commander's Discretion (CD) to extend flight duties twice or more within the past four weeks." Worryingly, more than 60% of pilots surveyed were worried about the ramifications of refusing to prolong their flight duty times.

"These are worrying signs and clear indications that fatigue safety risks are not well managed in many European airlines," ECA president Otjan de Bruijn stated, labelling the findings "concerning."

Safety Management Deficiencies

Perhaps even more concerning are the safety management deficiencies brought to light by the report. It underscores the inadequacy of current safety protocols in addressing fatigue-related risks. The ECA asserts that these deficiencies pose an imminent threat to the safety of both passengers and crew members.

The data in the analysis "demonstrated that there are challenges and inadequacies in the fatigue risk management arrangements of operators across all countries represented, as well as gaps in the oversight provided by regulators," according to de Bruijn. Looking at the report, 53.2% of the pilots surveyed stated that "fatigue risk was either 'mostly not well managed' or 'not well managed' within their airline."

"The UK (72.0%), Malta (66.5%), Spain (63.1%), and Ireland (61.7%) had the highest proportion of crew who indicated [Fatigue Risk Management (FRM)] was mostly not or inadequately managed," the report continued.

Impact on Decision-Making

Fatigue doesn't merely manifest physically; it also impairs cognitive function. The report indicates that a significant number of pilots have had to make critical decisions while battling exhaustion, potentially compromising safety standards. This aspect is particularly worrisome, as it hints at the potential for accidents or near-misses caused by impaired judgement.

The Call for Action

Urgent Reforms

In response to these disturbing findings, the ECA is calling for urgent and comprehensive reforms within the European aviation industry. They advocate for a complete overhaul of safety management systems to address the issue of pilot fatigue effectively.

"We hope that [the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA)] and national authorities across Europe will take a careful look at the report and take the necessary action to ensure that airlines provide effective fatigue reporting systems and manage properly their fatigue-related safety risks," ECA secretary general Philip von Schoppenthau concluded.

Improved Work Conditions

One of the primary steps towards mitigating fatigue-related risks is to enhance the working conditions of pilots. This includes optimizing duty schedules, allowing adequate rest between flights, and implementing stringent guidelines to ensure pilots are well-rested and mentally alert.

Training and Awareness

Furthermore, the ECA is stressing the importance of ongoing training and awareness programs. These initiatives are aimed at equipping pilots, airlines, and aviation authorities with the knowledge and tools necessary to identify and combat fatigue effectively.

Conclusion

The ECA's report serves as a stark reminder of the critical role played by well-rested and alert pilots in ensuring the safety of air travel. Addressing fatigue-related risks is not a luxury but an imperative for the aviation industry. It's now up to airlines, aviation authorities, and policymakers to heed this warning and take immediate action to safeguard the lives of passengers and crew.

With Inputs from European Cockpit Association

In a significant legal development, Jackson Square Aviation Ireland Ltd., a lessor that provides aircraft to the grounded airline Go First, has taken a decisive step by filing an appeal with the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT). This move comes as a response to the NCLT's recent judgement, which permitted Go First to continue utilizing the leased aircraft despite its financial turmoil.

The Appeal in Context

The NCLT Ruling

The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) had previously issued a ruling on July 26, 2023, that allowed Go First, formerly known as 'GoAir,' to maintain access to the aircraft leased from various lessors, including Jackson Square Aviation Ireland Ltd.

According to the tribunal's decision, "The DGCA has not deregistered the aircraft, implying that they are available for use by Go First to resume operations. Therefore, as long as the aircraft/engines are registered, they can be utilized for operating or flying in order to keep Go First running, however, within the safeguards/safety norms prescribed by the regulators."

Jackson Square Aviation Ireland Ltd.'s Stand

Jackson Square Aviation Ireland Ltd. is now the second lessor, following in the footsteps of Engine Lease Finance BV, to challenge the NCLT's decision. This decision is expected to have far-reaching implications for both lessors and the airline industry in India.

Scheduled Tribunal Hearing

The appeal made by Jackson Square Aviation Ireland Ltd. was officially listed at the Registrar's Court on August 29, 2023. The Registrar's Court, responsible for ensuring the technical compliance of pleadings, is set to conduct the hearing on this matter in the coming week.

The Legal Battle Unveiled

Challenging Precedent

The decision to challenge the NCLT ruling underscores the lessor's strong disagreement with the current legal interpretation. Jackson Square Aviation Ireland Ltd is determined to protect its assets and interests in the face of Go First's financial instability.

Go First's Financial Struggles

Go First, like many airlines worldwide, has faced severe financial challenges due to the global pandemic. This has raised concerns about its ability to honor leasing agreements, leading lessors to seek legal remedies.

Impact on Leasing Industry

The outcome of this appeal could set a precedent for other lessors dealing with financially distressed airlines. It may shape how leasing companies navigate such situations in the future.

The Road Ahead

Legal Battle's Complexity

Legal experts anticipate a complex legal battle, with both parties presenting compelling arguments. The outcome will depend on the interpretation of the law and contractual obligations.

Airline's Perspective

Go First is likely to defend its right to utilize the leased aircraft, citing the need for operational continuity. The airline's future may hinge on the tribunal's decision.

Industry Observers

Aviation industry observers are closely monitoring this case, as it may have implications for the broader industry. The ruling could influence how lessors engage with airlines facing financial challenges.

International Implications

The case also has international implications, as it involves a lessor headquartered in Ireland and an Indian airline. This intersection of jurisdictions adds complexity to the legal proceedings.

Conclusion

In the midst of turbulence in the aviation industry, the appeal filed by Jackson Square Aviation Ireland Ltd. adds another layer of uncertainty. As the NCLAT prepares to weigh the arguments and evidence presented, the fate of leased aircraft and the wider leasing industry hangs in the balance. This case underscores the challenges faced by lessors during these unprecedented times.

With Inputs from Money Control